On the drive southward from Washington DC, the brilliant half moon, which looked down upon the Red Bulls and DC United at RFK Stadium, hovered over my car the entire way home as a constant reminder . . . half black, half white . . . 50/50 . . . 1-1. Amidst dealing with the frustration of what could have been for another season, I guess I seek consolation in the world around me; trying to put it all irrational outcomes in perspective.

For example, against the run of play (again), DC United (i.e., Christian Go-HOME-ez) found a way to foil us again. Thus, Red Bull supporters in the nosebleeds were the ones “going home.” However, we did so proudly and vocally ;-), and I think the Red Bulls earned the right to do the same. Whether you were watching it at home or in Section 433 of RFK, it was a spectacle. The match was everything you thought it would be . . . physical, controversial, dramatic, etc. The Red Bulls played out of their hide! We saw it, and they knew it!

After enduring ridiculous traffic northbound and southbound to RFK (on a Sunday?????) RagingBullNation and ESC finally made it to the nosebleeds and represented well! We knew we did, because after Jozy drew first blood on our end, he looked right up at us jumping and shaking his fists. We were ecstatic, and at that moment, I thought it was in the cards for us. Johnny Toro, Shaggy, and I joined in ESC’s version of team support (and opponent criticism . . . ), while periodically and discretely singing JT’s melodic “sideline serenades” amongst ourselves to “represent” while not upsetting the ESC “vibe.”

At the final whistle, as a precaution, we waited for 15-20 minutes to let the majority of the DC fans exit. At the same time, nearly EVERY Red Bull player acknowledged us before leaving the pitch. That was classy. With the indecisive moon still lingering, I heard the resonant echo of an excerpt from old Bryan Adams hit that was playing over the RFK speakers . . . ” . . . those were the best days of my life, oh yeah!” Indeed, some of the best times in my life have been in great company at a MetroStars or Red Bulls matches, including some memorable trips with ESC. There is always next year . . . and the boys know it. I think Dema summed it up best in the post-match quotes.

So, now we all look to the off-season. The team will yet again rebuild for next year’s campaign, and we (RBN) will also continue to take the steps necessary to grow our membership by attracting great people, like our current Nationals, who are voting on a very special RBN award to be unveiled soon!! This is just one of the privileges of being an RBN National. Yes, there will be some “business” to take care of in the off-season, including getting the last five BEV videos produced -GASP-!!! Even though the season has ended, www.RagingBullNation.net keeps going strong with updates, etc. So, sign up or stay on our mailing list, because will be ready to make some special announcements in the off-season, not to mention celebrating our 2nd birthday on February 21, 2007!!!

With heavy security escorting us down the switch-back ramps, we proudly cheered our allegiance to the “New York RedMetroBullStars” . . . hehe As we went our separate ways to the busses and our cars, I reflected on the evening’s events and realized how proud I am of our Raging Reds. Amidst, tumultuous change spanning MANY seasons before the current one, our beloved Red Bulls ended their inaugural season on a positive note . . . We will be back better than ever, because we have the HEART OF A BULL . . .

Lastly, I hope we all take time during the off-season to reflect on the PEOPLE who have enriched our experiences. Some will return, some may not, and some will not. Such is the ebb and flow of life and the passion for The Beautiful Game.

YIRB,

CT

PS

Binks (aka, “2006 Red Bull Fan of the Year”), I brought your jumper cables, thinking I could return them. -SIGH- I guess they are intended to be an enduring reminder of the bond we share in the Red Bull family! Sorry I missed you, AGAIN!

PPS

To Jimmy and Mark from Boston. The MMS message was AWESOME! I am afraid the “Red Bull Chariot” idea will need to be postponed, but JT digs it! Regardless, some of us might still come up next weekend to party on the Logan airstrip! You guys rock, and our always welcome to our Roundups in The Meadowlands!

OK, can SOMEBODY shut off the fans around Giants Stadium?!!! CRIPES!!!!!! Besides blowing the bagels, bacon, pancakes, and eggs all over the place (even the gold paint off my horns!) during our Barstorming Brunch II - The Sequel, it just chilled our bones on an otherwise beautiful day. By the way, we found out the Elie Ikangu LOVES pancakes, because he made a special trip to our prematch brunch to sample good ol’ American “comfort food!” It was a riot, and he gulped Red Bull like it was the last Gatorade water bottle thrown to him on the pitch at the end of overtime . . . swear to God! LOL

By the way, Elie, we will never forget how excited you were that we “noticed” you in the pub in the very beginning of the season . . . or how “scared” you were to sign Johnny Toro’s head! LOL

Speaking of player appearances, there were hardly any in the Bull’s Corner Pub after a 1-0 shutout of our Raging Reds at home, after an “ugly” chip by Gomez late in the second half. Honestly, what was Conway to do? Honestly, for the last home match of the season, heading up the pub from the locker room SHOULD HAVE BEEN MANDATORY!!! Suggestion for MLS player contracts, ALL players (regardless of status or tenure) must make a MINIMUM of 8 post-match appearances for the fans. [post-match quotes]

Honestly, what gives?! Yes, Coach Arena, you did thank us personally before the penultimate regular-season match against the Wizards, BUT it would be nice if the players showed us the same respect from time to time. I do not mean to beat a dead bull . . . erh . . . horse, but do not falsely convince yourselves that your most devoted fans do not notice when they are essentially “shrugged off.” It would NOT my top strategy for cultivating a passionate fan following . . . HELLO, New York Red Bulls . . . . Can you hear us, now?!

Now, off that subject, let’s look ahead to the critical second match in DC this Sunday evening. I will be there, and I hope you will decide to either join the caravan, coordinated by the omnipresent “Road Warrior,” Corey Vezina of ESC, or make your own travel and ticket arrangements:

Cost: $60 (includes match ticket)

When: Sunday, October 29, 2006

Where:

Depart Manhattan (31st St/8th Ave) 12:00 PM

Depart Vince Lombardi Park & Ride (NJ Tpk Exit 18) 12:30 PM

Arrive RFK Stadium 5:00 PM

Kickoff DCU v RBN 6:00 PM

Depart RFK 8:15 PM

Arrive Vince Lombardi Park & Ride 12:30 AM (Monday)

Arrive Manhattan 1:00 AM (Monday)

More information: empiresc@verizon.net

PayPal: escgear@yahoo.com

YIRB,

CT

PS
Congratulations to the Annual RBNY Award winners, including El Lobo’s “Player of the Month” accolade!

PPS

Yes, there was VERY GOOD material recorded for the BEV!! Although, I STILL have no time to produce it, I did manage to get a new “Herd” article posted. Promises, promises . . . yeah, I know!

. . . OH, WHAT A RELIEF IT IS!!

OK, so I might be dating myself a little by twisting this old “Alka-Seltzer” jingle into something that is a worthy introduction for this BULLog installment. Regardless, our Raging Reds secured the final spot in MLS East Conference playoffs with an amazing team effort in front of nearly 20,000 raging fans, whose role was also important in spurring the Red Bulls on!

Speaking of the fans, Bruce Arena called upon RagingBullNation and Empire Supporters Club to gather before the match (earlier than we usually do) so he could have a word with us. This news came in the middle of one of our most spectacular Roadside Roundups, which traditionally kickoff (no pun) our festivities before Red Bull matches.

So, after being the consummate hosts for our guests from Manhattan and surrounding areas, and from the local Learning Center for Exceptional Children, and even some UNINVITED guests (shame on you parents/coaches!), AND unveiling our new 2007 National Passport offering (thanks, again, T5O!), AND raising $300 for the Starlight Foundation by having the RED BULL GIRLS (thank you ladies!) sell raffle tickets for an authentic autographed Red Bull home jersey, we quickly broke down and headed in to hear what Bruce had to say . . .

It was a simple “Thank You” for past, present, and future support; and PROMISING us a team we can all be proud of. I believe this was an unprecedented gesture by any coach of the MetroStars or Red Bulls, and it was taken to heart by all present. Apparently, Bruce may have also said something to the boys in the locker room, because their performance on the pitch was inspiring and worth of all the pride and passion their fan base can offer. Hey, Bruce! After last weekend, WE ARE PROUD . . . just keep it up!

The thrilling effort was highlighted by another hat-trick performance by “El Lobo!” It was the second consecutive season in which the Wizards “helped” usher MLS’ NJ-based franchise into the playoffs, but the Wizards camp will argue you that the referee did most of the work for them. With a playoff berth at stake for both teams, it was the penultimate match of the season, replete with drama, intensity, and heart-pounding fear and excitement! The veterans, youngsters, starters, and substitutes alike all played as if it were their last match . . . EVER! Amado’s contributions were rewarded by being named the MLS Player of the Week, too!

Speaking of veterans, immediately before kickoff, Youri Djorkaeff’s stellar career (first article; second article) was recognized in a Jumbotron tribute, which will end with the New York Red Bulls . . . IN FRISCO, TEXAS!!!! Also, the passing of former Colorado Rapids boss and USMNT Assistant Coach for the past two World Cups with Bruce Arena, Glen “Mooch” Myernick, was acknowledged with a moment of silence. You will both be missed.

After the match, the post-euphoria exhaustion set in for all of us in The Corral. However, we were not too frozen (well, maybe Wendy the southern beach blonde/belle from Virginia Beach, VA, was) or fatigued to make our way to the Bull’s Corner Pub, which was BUZZING with excitement, player appearances, a “sea” of energetic kids wanting autographs . . . including the autograph of RBN’s own Johnny Toro, who was prominently displayed in the centerfold of the current GAMEDAY (Vol. 1; Iss. 16) publication. I think he signed more autographs than Red Bull players and coaches combined, which started before kickoff in The Corral! NICE, JT!!!

Overall, it was a day and night to remember, which started at 3 PM for RagingBullNation, and ended at nearly midnight. It was also a night to remember those who could not enjoy the moment with us (We miss you, GR!). As we enthusiastically and thankfully look ahead, the New York Red Bulls will NEVER be alone throughout this post-season, especially if we Nationals have anything to say about it!

Since the first leg of the series against DC United kicks off at 2:00 PM this Saturday, we will be preparing for the “Barnstormin’ Brunch II - The Sequel,” which we intend to continue outside after stopping by the Bull’s Corner Pub. Hey, “Mad Hatter!” I hope that chicken suit of yours can lay eggs!! The following weekend, we will combine forces with ESC (likely in the nosebleeds of RFK - but who cares!!) to cheer our boys onto the next round of the playoffs by kicking DC United out of its own house! GET READY FOR PAYBACK! Check back here for details.

YIRB,

CT

PS
I know I have been saying this for a while, but I WILL GET THE “BEV” VIDEOS DONE! It is because the Red Bulls keep winning, that have not had the time to produce them. So, honestly, I am in NO RUSH RIGHT NOW, but it WILL get done . . .

Well, instead joining my buddy Ray and his friends in Colorado this weekend, I spent time with my family in New Hampshire. I know, I know! You are like, “Chief, what were you thinking?! While I love my RBN family, my “blood relatives” tend to miss me . . . a lot . . . between April and November of every year. Maybe next time, Ray! By the way, was that you with the “NYRB/St Christopher’s Cross/England” banner?

Everything in NH was perfect, even the weather and the foliage. However, the Raging Reds did not make anything easier for themselves next weekend. Yes, we all knew that it would come down to the penultimate showdown between the Wizards and the Red Bulls on October 14. However, I did expect us to at least pace with the Wizards, who earned an impressive victory over Chivas USA . . . at home.

I do not want to make excuses, BUT playing on the road at altitude seemed to work for the cRapids. Pete Canero must have recalibrated his biological GPS following the cRapids tally in the 3rd minute. Although, I failed to see the issue because there were so many gridiron lines on the pitch, he should have been able to triangulate his position better at any given moment. (NOTE: I cannot wait until MLS is completely independent of “meatball” stadiums . . . UGH!)

After the initial goal, the first half was unremarkable for both sides, in my opinion. I thought the second half would be a different story for the Red Bulls, with Buddle subbing for Wolyniec and the stakes being so high for the Raging Reds. Altidore started again, and played a full 90. He got one good look at net, but his inexperience showed on this night. Although, Guevara (who was one of the only players to actually HOLD ON to the ball for a while) did not do much better under less pressure at one point. After Schopp relieved Henderson in the 58th minute, he quickly catalyzed Guevara’s sure-footed, make-up equalizer after some Schopp attacking tenacity in the front right third of the pitch.

The Raging Reds seemed to rally for the next 10 minutes, but after that . . . FORGEDDABOUDIT! The cRapids were flooding the Red Bulls defensive line in numbers with swift counterattacks and good midfield possession. Indeed, this was the tell-tale difference between the two teams, especially in the last 20 minutes. I think the altitude was taking it toll on the visiting “City [Lung] Slickers.” The Red Bulls averted many threats, including an indirect just outside the goal box because Conway handled a Mendes backpass. Conway made amends with a couple of “ugly” but effective saves. Nevertheless, they eeked out a point . . . on the road.

So, it comes down to the final 90 minutes of the regular season. It would not be MetroStars OR Red Bull soccer if this were not the case. Again, the Wizards and the Red Bulls are both seeking that knockout punch to extend their respective seasons. However, the one difference from this year to last, is that Kansas City will have a chance to avenge the season that could have been (2005) face to face with the only team that could stand in there way . . . BUT IN OUR HOUSE (so to speak . . . Red Bull Park, here we come!)!!

The task ahead is not surprise. It is the same as it ever was . . . WE MUST WIN to advance! So, stay tuned next weekend, and consider joining us in “The Corral” (no matter where your seats are) to do our part for the final playoff spot push.

** You will also be able to learn some of the new cheers and chants Johnny Toro put together and about our soon-to-be-advertised 2007 Passport offering! **

YIRB,

CT

PS

If you are finding it difficult to get back into the mood, then pop down to Mulligan’s on Thursday, October 12. In addition to the Red Bulls returning to New Jersey, the World Cup trophy is swinging through Hoboken, too! Details to follow!!

. . . . and NONE of it was televised! ????? If you were in “The Corral” you would have seen ALL the action . . . LIVE!

This day was anything but typical. It began quite early for a select few Nationals, who at the request of MLS, met with Dr. Jay Gladden from the Isenberg School of Business (UMASS-Amherst), an independent Sports Management consultant hired by MLS to find out what makes MLS supporters “tick” and what they like and do not like about the league. It was a solid 90 minutes (no pun) of healthy, open, and honest exchange, which we hope provided “actionable feedback” for MLS going forward. Thank you Neel, Donna, and Dr. Gladden for providing this excellent opportunity for us to voice our concerns, praises, and ideas!! This MLS initiative is VERY encouraging to us!! A special thanks to all the Nationals who were able to invest the extra time on a Saturday to help MLS better serve its constituents in the future.

Well, all that thinking and discussion during the focus group gave all of us an appetite. “Mama Bull” did not disappoint, even under threatening skies, by serving up 3 variations of sausage, homemade ziti, garden salad, Italian bread, and best of all . . . DESSERT!!!!! Thanks to the generosity of many of our Nationals and even those outside of our ranks, it was a tremendously successful event! Also, thanks to Neel Shah and Donna Andujo of MLS for their generosity and their peers and colleagues for spending time with us at our Roadside Roundup and in The Corral (Section 115) during the match! Your generosity did not go unnoticed! I am glad you were able to gain even MORE insight into what RagingBullNation is all about, especially some of the warm and unique personalities that comprise our young organization. It was obvious that you had a great time with us, as we did with you all!

Like the weather, the Red Bulls’ playoff chances were uncertain before the kickoff this past Saturday evening. However, at the end of 90 minutes of regulation and extra time, the Raging Reds take one VERY IMPORTANT STEP towards certainty on the youthful coattails of Josmer Altidore. To be honest, and you know I am in this forum, it was the first time I personally noticed EVERY Red Bull working hard for each other on the pitch. When mingling with the team in the Bull’s Corner Pub afterward, the consensus was that the players felt the chemistry on the pitch. Everything seemed to be clicking on and off the pitch; and FINALLY we saw players acknowledging the fan support of the fans.

NOTE TO THE “RAGING REDS”: RAGINGBULLNATION AND THE REST OF THE FANS FELT THAT CHEMISTRY WITH YOU, TOO!! IT HELPS US DO OUR JOB IN THE STANDS MORE EFFECTIVELY AND ENTHUSIASTICALLY. EXPRESSING THE MUTUAL APPRECIATION ONLY ENHANCES THIS FEELING BY ALLOWING IT TO GAIN MOMENTUM! KEEP IT UP, ONE GAME AT A TIME!!!

I wish I could corroborate the same praise for the officiating, which was just completely baffling. I think Jair “Jerry-Curl” Marrufo and his referee teammates had NO chemistry. We are lucky that it did not overturn the outcome of the current match, but we will be without Marvell Wynne (of all people?!??) in Colorado. Ray et al will carry the torch at INVESCO Field next weekend! In retrospect, we have had the cRapids number. Let’s see if Colorado’s Eric Denton can act his age this time, and if Kyle Beckerman takes a shower AFTER the match! PIG - PENNNNNNNN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

In conclusion, I challenge the notion that it is not good to mix business with pleasure. On this day, it was a sublime combination!

YIRB,
CT

PS
By the way, this is the first BULLog from my OWN computer since I unpacked it. So, that means the video updates are not far behind . . . I PROMISE

PPS

Here is how the playoff race is looking as of October 2.